$11 Million Extension Builds a Safer, Stronger DC for Cyclists and Pedestrians

Washington, DC – Mayor Bowser today broke ground on the Fort Totten extension of the Metropolitan Branch Trail (MBT), which will connect the existing trail from John McCormack Drive in Brookland to the Fort Totten Metro Station. This is the next major milestone toward the completion of the Metropolitan Branch Trail.

“This extension is a tremendous example of how we are working together as a community to build a safer, stronger DC for pedestrians and cyclists,” said Mayor Bowser. “With this project, we’re closing key gaps in our network and providing a safe, off-street route for people traveling through the District.”

The $11 million project, which will take approximately 18 months to complete, is a partnership between the District Department of Transportation, the National Park Service, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority, and CSX Railroad. Trail features along the off-street extension will include: LED lighting, security cameras, way-finding signage, permeable pavement, and bio-retention facilities.

Once complete, the Metropolitan Branch Trail will be an eight-mile multi-use trail that connects Union Station to Silver Spring, Maryland. Following the Metropolitan Branch Line of the Baltimore and Ohio (B&O) Railroad, the trail passes through numerous vibrant and historic neighborhoods. Current plans include connections to the area’s trail network such as the Capital Crescent Trail, Anacostia Trails System, and integration into the East Coast Greenway.